Determinants for Adopting Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Among Farmers in Sokoto State, Nigeria (Published)
This study examined the determinants for adopting climate change adaptation strategies among farmers in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The aim of the study was to find out what determines the choice and use of adaptation strategies in the study area. A systematic multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 6 Local Government Areas in Sokoto State. Seven hundred and eighty-three (783) farmers were purposively selected. Structured questionnaire and Focussed Group Discussion were used to obtain the required information from the selected farmers. Frequency, percentages, Relative Importance Index Technique and ordered logistic regression were used for data analysis and presentation. The results showed that 97% stated that it is possible to adapt to climate change. Multiple cropping, use of early maturing crop varieties and the use of organic manure are the most effective adaptation strategies in the study area among others. The logistic regression model analysis showed that age, gender, marital status, household size, educational level and years of climate change awareness of the farmers have no significant relationship with the choice of adaptation strategies in the study area. Based on the findings of the study, major recommendations made include: continuous raising of awareness on climate change to the farmers by extension agents, Non-Governmental Organisations and farmers’ cooperatives; farmers should be encouraged to participate in agricultural extension services which will educate them on the effects of climate change and viable adaptation strategies and adequate provision of weather forecast records and climate related data for the farmers.
Keywords: Adaptation Strategies; Agriculture; Climate Change; Farmers and Multiple Cropping